25th Feb, 2026 11:00
A late 17th century brass 30-hour lantern clock, fitted to a later oak longcase, William Kenning (London), the bell cross frame with turned finial over foliate scroll pediments, the foliate engraved dial signed 'Wm Kenning, Londini fecit', with single hand and silvered chapter ring, on turned feet, spike and hoop fittings to the rear, the turned four column movement with verge escapement, short bob pendulum and countwheel strking on a bell, 41 cm high, the 18th century panelled case with moulded protruding top, hinged glazed doors to front and one side and moulded plinth base, 203 cm high
Post 1675 Kenning started work in Banbury, Oxfordshire then moved to London in 1675.
From the estate of the late William John Thornton (1937-2025), of Groby, Leicestershire. Known as 'John' to his friends and family, he became interested in steam engines from an early age, and then traction engines and aircraft, before building an extensive knowledge and collection of clocks, notably early Lantern clocks and longcases. He was a very keen member of the Antiquarian Horological Society, and gave several lectures to their members at Keble College, Oxford. John was also a member of the Furniture Society in Groby village, and the Groby allotment Society, being chairman of the latter for over 30 years.
£2,000 - £3,000
Buyer's premium: 27.50% +VAT
A late 17th century brass 30-hour lantern clock, fitted to a later oak longcase, William Kenning (London), the bell cross frame with turned finial over foliate scroll pediments, the foliate engraved dial signed 'Wm Kenning, Londini fecit', with single hand and silvered chapter ring, on turned feet, spike and hoop fittings to the rear, the turned four column movement with verge escapement, short bob pendulum and countwheel strking on a bell, 41 cm high, the 18th century panelled case with moulded protruding top, hinged glazed doors to front and one side and moulded plinth base, 203 cm high
Post 1675 Kenning started work in Banbury, Oxfordshire then moved to London in 1675.
ProvenanceFrom the estate of the late William John Thornton (1937-2025), of Groby, Leicestershire. Known as 'John' to his friends and family, he became interested in steam engines from an early age, and then traction engines and aircraft, before building an extensive knowledge and collection of clocks, notably early Lantern clocks and longcases. He was a very keen member of the Antiquarian Horological Society, and gave several lectures to their members at Keble College, Oxford. John was also a member of the Furniture Society in Groby village, and the Groby allotment Society, being chairman of the latter for over 30 years.
Auction: Dawsons Discovery, 25th Feb, 2026
A curated sale of antiques & collectables, starting with an important collection from the Estate of the late William John Thornton (1937-2025), of Groby, Leicestershire. 'John', as he was known, was an enthusiastic collector and scholar of early English clocks, and a dedicated member of the Antiquarian Horological Society, where he lectured on clocks at Keble College, Oxford, and contributed articles to respected horological publications. His passion for early timepieces—particularly lantern clocks and longcase clocks—resulted in a carefully curated collection that reflects both historical importance and technical excellence.
Please note: This is an online sale only; there are no bidders in the room.
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Viewing
In person at our saleroom:
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Friday 20th Feb - 10am-5pm
Monday 23rd Feb - 10am-5pm
Tuesday 24th Feb - 10am-5pm
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